This June 19, 2017 satellite image released by the CSIS Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative shows that the facilities on Mischief Reef "could be connected to radars for any missile systems that might be housed there."

"Anyone with no invasive intention will find no reason to worry about this. We hope that the relevant party could view this matter in an objective and calm way," Chinese Foreign Ministry Hua Chunying said Thursday.

Beijing reiterated that it is entitled to conduct "peaceful" construction activities in the region as a sovereign state.

"I must stress that China is a big country in terms of trade, and also a staunch champion of regional peace and stability. We will continue to work with all countries to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea," Hua said.

White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said that Washington had directly raised concerns with the Chinese regarding the matter.

"And there will be near-term and long-term consequences. And we’ll certainly keep you up to date," Sanders said in a press conference.

The Philippine government has yet to comment on the recent developments in the three artificial islands. Mischief or Panganiban Reef is within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.

China's YJ-12B anti-chip cruise missile can strike surface vessels within 295 nautical miles while the HQ-9B long-range surface-to-air missile can target aircraft, drones and cruise missiles within 160 nautical miles of the artificial islands, according to the CNBC report.

It also reported that missile systems have also been spotted on Woody Island in the Paracel Islands.

The Senate adjourned yesterday without passing the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act or the second part of the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, meant to empower President Duterte to address the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

Jeepney drivers will be provided with the third tranche of cash assistance this month to help them and their families cope with the crisis caused by the coronavirus disease 2019, presidential spokesman Harry Roque said.